Is the ice safe on Massachusetts ponds and lakes? Here's the warning from first responders.
After a deadly accident on Cape Cod Saturday, police and firefighters in Massachusetts have issued a strong warning to anyone thinking about going out onto the ice.
"I wouldn't go on it myself. Always assume the ice isn't safe," said Framingham Deputy Fire Chief Jose Lopez.
A woman died Saturday and her husband is still missing after falling through the ice on a river in Eastham while walking their dog. Two police officers were hospitalized during the rescue after they also fell into the frigid water.
Massachusetts ice warning
Massachusetts State Police released a public service announcement Sunday warning people about the dangers of going out onto the ice.
"The important thing to remember is that ice is different everywhere. One pond is not going to look the same as another, as a river, etc.," the video said.
State police said for someone to be on the ice it needs to be at least four inches thick and it should look clear with a blue tint, rather than white and hazy.
The best way to assess ice is to actually cut into it and see how thick it is. Authorities said a frozen layer of snow on top of the ice acts as insulator and prevents further freezing of the ice underneath.
On Sunday, several people could be seen out ice fishing in Natick and walking across Jamaica Pond in Jamaica Plain.
What to do if you fall through the ice
Lopez said his department received a call on Sunday about a dog on the ice. Fortunately, the pet didn't fall through, but he says it can happen very quickly to anyone on icy ponds, lakes and rivers.
"They're in a panic. They're trying to get out. The ice just keeps breaking and it exhausts them faster," Lopez said about what happens when a person falls into the frigid water.
He said ice rescues are very dangerous and require special equipment. Lopez added that if a person falls through, it's important to remain calm.
"Lean backwards, that usually keeps you afloat the most. Conserve your energy. If ice is weak and keeps breaking on you, yell for help hopefully someone will hear you. If you do choose to go out to always let someone know you are going out or have someone with them and never assume ice is safe. The only safe ice in our city is the skating rink," he said.
